Sores in Your Mouth? It May be Your Dentures

Dentures can be a life-changing tool for many people. They allow you to continue to enjoy food, conversation, and meaningful social interactions. However, there are a few intermittent drawbacks to using them such as dental sores.

These painful lesions can be a real drag on your good time, but there are ways to treat and even prevent these sores from forming. Continue reading to find out how.

Why Do Dental Sores Form?

Dental sores can form for many reasons:

• New Denture – If you’re just getting used to a new denture, the fit may not agree with you at first, especially if this is the first time you’ve ever worn dentures. The prosthetic is smooth but fits over your very textured gums. It’s natural that there may be some rubbing.
• Poorly Fitting Prosthetic – If you’ve suddenly developed sores after successfully wearing your dentures for a longer period of time, they may no longer fit properly.
  Over time, your jaw structure slowly changes, especially if you’re missing a lot of teeth. As your jaw shrinks, the prosthetic may begin to rub in places of your mouth it didn’t before.
• Food Particle Irritation – Food particles can get stuck under your prosthetic after eating and cause friction between your gums and your dentures.
• Bacterial Buildup – If your dentures haven’t been cleaned correctly, they will begin to build up bacteria, causing major irritation and possibly gum disease.

What Can I Do to Heal and Prevent Dental Sores?

For the most part, dental sores should be a rare occurrence whenever you wear dentures. However, if you find yourself in need of relief, you can follow some of the tips below:

• Give Your Gums a Break – If you notice sore spots or irritation from your dentures, the first step is to remove them. Allow your gums and oral tissues some time to rest and recover.
• Rinse with Saltwater – Gargling with a warm saltwater solution can help soothe oral sores. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water, then rinse your mouth gently. This can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
• Use Topical Ointments – Over-the-counter oral gels or creams designed for mouth sores can provide temporary relief. Apply them directly to the sore spots as directed on the product label.
• Practice Good Oral Hygiene – Keeping your mouth clean is critical for preventing infection and promoting healing. Brush your gums, tongue, and any remaining natural teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush.
• Stay Hydrated – Drinking plenty of water can help maintain oral moisture and prevent dry mouth, which can contribute to denture-related sores. This includes soaking your dentures over night to keep them moist until you put them back in.

If the sores persist or worsen despite home care efforts, it’s time to contact your dentist. They can assess the issue, make necessary adjustments to your dentures, and provide professional guidance for managing and preventing future sores.

Denture sores can be aggravating and cut into your valuable time, but with these tips, you should be back on your way to enjoying life again in no time.

About the Author

Dr. Jayme Martinez knows that every patient is unique and has individual dental needs. That’s why, at Kessler Park Dental, you’ll receive personalized care that aligns with your smile goals. Dr. Martinez has been practicing dentistry for over ten years. After receiving his dental doctorate from Baylor College of Dentistry, Dr. Martinez has expanded his knowledge through various professional organizations and certification programs. To schedule a denture consultation, call (214) 303-9969 or visit the website to learn more.